Sheila Mitchell was hit by a car in Godalming and died later in hospital

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NEW measures could be introduced in Meadrow in Godalming to try to make the area safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

The move comes after Sheila Mitchell was hit and killed by a car at the junction with Wey Court three weeks ago.

The changes could include painting 30mph signs on the road, called roundels, and putting in vehicle-activated devices which flash up when a speeding motorist passes.

The suggestions have so far only been agreed in principle, and Surrey’s highway officials and the police are still considering other options.

Cllr Steve Cosser, who represents the Godalming North division at the county council, promised to meet the costs of the roundels from his member’s allowance.

Patient drivers

“The issue is about drivers’ behaviour as a whole rather than purely speed,” he added. “The point is that there is an issue here and it needs to be looked at carefully and properly.

“I would like to plead with people who use that road, and indeed all our roads, to drive carefully and considerately, and to be patient with pedestrians and cyclists in particular.”

Peter Lewer, Mrs Mitchell’s brother, said he had little faith in the ability of roundels or vehicle-activated signs to slow down traffic.

“I think if you are going at more than 30mph then you already know that and you do not need a flashing sign telling you again,” he said. “I think speed limits need to be enforced.

“In my opinion, the things that work in general are bumps in the road and speed cameras, although I am not sure a speed bump would be appropriate in Meadrow.

“The best option would be moving the 30mph zone out further towards Guildford, so people slow down before they get to that area rather than only slowing down when they reach it.”

Speaking on behalf of Godalming Cycle Campaign, Alec McCalden urged the county council to communicate with road users via the Waverley Cycle Forum to make sure the junction is made safer for cyclists.

“Roundels are a first step, which is positive,” he added. “There are other options but this is a good start.”

Safety courses

He also called on drivers to pass cyclists as moving objects, giving a clearance of at least three feet and not cutting in front of them. Cyclists could benefit from taking a Bikeability course, Mr McCalden said, learning how to be a responsible road user.

Sheila Mitchell, 73 and from Peasmarsh, was cycling down Meadrow towards Godalming at 3.56pm on Wednesday June 2.

She moved to the centre of the lane as if to turn right into Wey Court, where she regularly worked as a volunteer, and was hit by a red Peugeot 207 that had been behind her.

An air ambulance rushed Mrs Mitchell to Kings College Hospital in London, but doctors were unable to save her and she died later that evening. A police spokesman confirmed the driver was unlikely to face criminal charges in relation to Mrs Mitchell’s death.